Emergency Care

We Are Here to Help!

While most concerns can wait until our Brookings, Aberdeen, Milbank, Sioux Falls, or Watertown orthodontic offices re-open, we know emergency situations do happen. Reviewing the suggestions for some common issues below could save you some time and prevent added discomfort – maybe even saving you an extra trip to the office.

If you have questions or concerns that cannot wait until regular business hours, please call our office number and you will be directed to the assistant on call. These messages are checked on a regular basis and are typically returned within a short period of time.

In the case of broken brackets or appliances, please call our office as soon as possible. This will allow us to determine if we can build in time for repair at your next scheduled appointment (and save your family a trip into the office) or if we need to see you immediately to ease pain or repair sooner and schedule the appropriate amount of time for your care.

Common Orthodontic Problems

Loose Teeth

If your teeth begin feeling a little loose, don’t worry; this is normal! Your braces must first loosen your teeth in order to move them into the right position.

Broken Brackets

A broken bracket will affect the outcome of your treatment. Please contact our office as soon as possible so that we can get you in for a repair appointment.

 

Loose Bands or Brackets

Broken or loose braces or appliances may or may not be a problem, but call the office to be sure!

 

Forsus

It’s common for this appliance to “come apart”. Watch this video for a step-by-step patient repair of a Forsus device.

 

Turning Your Expander

Follow this step-by-step video for turning your palatal expander at home.

 

Poking Wires or Lost Separators

During treatment wires may shift or bend, which may result in a wire poking. If this happens, cover the area with wax or bend the wire with the eraser end of the pencil. Call the office if the problem continues. We are always happy to answer your questions!

Most patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, but call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.

 

Discomfort

If you experience any discomfort from your braces rubbing against the inside of your mouth, use wax to protect the area. Treatment time may be extended due to broken/loose brackets or bands, poor rubber band wear, poor oral hygiene, or missed appointments.